To be an Innovator

Even though I wrote this post a long time ago, what I actually wanted to do was describe how to be an innovator. (I don't claim to be an innovator, but I have observed some at extreme close-up!)

So what do you have to do to be an innovator?

1. Set yourself some 'almost-impossible' goals.
2. Always be suspicious of 'conventional wisdom'
3. Be unconventional. In your career. In your studies. In your learnings.
4. Try to have an in-depth conversation with people who disagree with your points of view - without getting angry at them.
5. Steer clear of dogmas and axioms.
6. When struck with a creative idea, if it hits your gut then go with it.
7. Learn when to diverge and the time to converge.
8. Keep your eyes on the world around even as you hone your idea to perfection.
9. Be open to cutting off your idea, if it is either late or before its time, without tying up your ego to it.
10. Always have 6-7 mentors from different industries, people whose opinions you value. But always trust your instincts.